Katie McCabe has produced a moment of absolute brilliance to score a momentous goal for the Republic of Ireland at the Women’s World Cup.
The Arsenal star created an iconic piece of Irish sports history just four minutes into their Group B clash with Canada.
After The Girls in Green won a corner, McCabe headed over to take an in-swinging cross. However, rather than putting it into the box for a teammate, the versatile winger brilliantly floated her corner over the goalkeeper and into the far corner of the net.
As a result, Katie McCabe scored an “Olimpico” goal – that is, directly from a corner.
Not only is this an outrageous strike, but it was also historic. This goal marks the first for the Republic of Ireland Women’s team in World Cup history. Additionally, it is the first Irish Women’s goal at any major tournament.
Sadly, though, this ridiculous effort was not enough to prevent defeat.
Canada 2-1 Ireland: Katie McCabe heroics cannot stop Olympic champs
Following the momentous goal from Katie McCabe, Canada responded at the end of the first half. An unfortunate own goal from Megan Connolly brought the Canadians level just before halftime.
The Olympic champions then took the lead shortly after the interval. Manchester United’s Adriana Leon was the scorer, finding the bottom corner with a poacher’s finish.
Even after taking the lead, Canada continued to threaten Ireland’s goal. They teased multiple chances from crosses, although saw these opportunities go to waste. Jordyn Huitema squandered a few opportunities that could have put the game to bed.
You cannot fault Ireland for a lack of effort, though. They ran themselves into the ground in search of an equaliser but, unfortunately, could only try shots from range. For instance, Katie McCabe tried to match her early heroics with some speculative efforts yet sadly could not convert.
Canada ultimately showed their quality to see out a crucial win in their pursuit of FIFA WWC glory.
Ireland exit FIFA WWC at group stage
The Girls in Green began their first-ever Women’s World Cup with the daunting task of facing the hosts. Ireland made their tournament debut against Australia – a team that many expect to go far this year.
Despite Ireland’s spirited efforts, they succumbed to a 1-0 defeat against the Matildas.
Now, following this defeat to Canada, Ireland are out of the 2023 Women’s World Cup. They are eliminated with one game to spare, regardless of the outcome of Australia vs Nigeria.
Ireland’s final game, against Nigeria on 31 July, will also be their last in Australia & New Zealand.
The tournament may not have gone as she wanted, but Katie McCabe will leave the Women’s World Cup with an incredible piece of national history.
Featured image credit: Getty
